Amongst a crowd of hot rods and custom cruisers, a modified Chevrolet Suburban is always going to stand out.
This modified 1967 example did just that at the recent Goodguys Del Mar Nationals event in Southern California.
Along with garnering attention from spectators, it impressed the judges to claim a Chevrolet GM Iron ‘Builder of the Year Finalist’ award.
Pacific Northwest’s finest
The modified Suburban was created by the J-Rod & Custom shop, based in Auburn, WA. Founded by Jared Hancock, the shop has produced multiple award-winning custom cars, and even restored a Lamborghini Espada.
However, the 1967 Chevrolet Suburban sits even lower to the floor than a Lamborghini… and certainly has more interior space.
An exterior painted in Lapis Poly blue, with a contrasting Bianco Italia white roof, helps pull in the crowds.
The work beneath the body is even more impressive, though.
Supercharged sixth-generation SUV
Powering the big SUV is a General Motors supercharged LT4 V-8 engine, featuring performance parts from Lingenfelter. Finished in Hugger Orange, the powerful motor stands out in the clean engine bay.
A GM eight-speed 8L90 automatic transmission sends power to the back wheels. Pirelli P Zero Nero tires are wrapped around Schott Drift wheels, with 22-inch items at the front and 24-inch rims out back.
The exterior color theme continues inside, with blue trim and patterned upholstery used throughout. A Pioneer multimedia display has been integrated into the dashboard, along with Vintage Air cooling.
On a winning streak
Earlier this year, the Suburban had made its debut at the Goodguys Pacific Northwest Nationals. It later appeared at the West Coast Nationals event in Pleasanton, CA, where it was recognized as one of the top five contenders for the America’s Most Beautiful prize.
The big Chevrolet’s run of form at Goodguys events continued to the recent Del Mar Nationals.
Being one of the ten Builder’s Choice Awards, picked by Charley Hutton, was an achievement in itself. But now, the Chevrolet GM Iron – Builder of the Year Finalist award opens the door to even bigger opportunities.
Ending the year on a high
As a ‘Builder of the Year’ finalist, the Suburban will appear again at the Goodguys Southwest Nationals. Should it claim the top prize, it will earn J-Rod & Custom a new Chevrolet crate motor.
The Goodguys Southwest Nationals will take place from November 19 to 21, at the WestWorld facility in Scottsdale, AZ.
Acting as the grand finale for the Goodguys show season, the Southwest Nationals will see winners in multiple categories crowned, along with the top autocross driver honored.
Should the Suburban win, it will at least have room in the trunk for more trophies.
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